Hands in winter

Cold air and indoor heating both dry skin out. Gloves outside help more than people expect.

Wash with lukewarm rather than hot water, and dry your hands properly — between the fingers too.

A slightly heavier layer of hand cream before bed, then cotton gloves if you have them, is an old trick that many people like.

If your skin is cracked, sore or not getting better, see a doctor or pharmacist — hand cream isn't a treatment.